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The top 4 restaurants with elegance in Athens

The top tables in Athens deliver elegant food and a chic style of eating as standard. Follow Verity Hogan as she explores the city’s best restaurants

City Guide

Verity Hogan,16 December, 2011

Alatsi

Alekos

Brown’s, Divani Caravel Hotel

Kohylia, Grand Resort Lagonissi

AlatsiAlatsi, which means natural sea salt in Cretan, specialises in light, flavourful cuisine inspired by the island. Here, fresh ingredients are imported daily and prepared in the simplest way possible. The rustic décor places the spotlight firmly on the pared-down, wooden furniture and the olive-green walls, which are dotted with landscapes of Crete. Traditional options might include the kaltsouria pie, filled with goat’s cheese and mint.

AlekosRecently reopened after an extensive refurbishment, Alekos has an ultra-sleek interior and a relaxed, lounge-bar ambience. The beach-inspired colour scheme takes in sand-coloured walls, wooden furnishings and natural stone features. Chef Panagiotis Peppas’ menu transforms food usually found at a beachside grill into gourmet cuisine: his spiced beef and turkey burgers are far superior to the routine fast-food versions of these snacks.

Brown’s, Divani Caravel HotelAs its name suggests, Brown’s has a muted colour scheme, comprising warm earth tones, caramel-coloured seating and glowing chandeliers. The unobtrusive surrounds guarantee a relaxing evening and enable the beautifully presented Mediterranean cuisine to take centre stage. Look out for the inventive daily specials, which add interest and meaning to the rest of the menu.

Kohylia, Grand Resort LagonissiEastern influences permeate every aspect of Kohylia, from the menu to the distinctly oriental décor; check out the pair of golden Buddhas and the vast aquarium, which is filled with exotic fish. Better still is the restaurant’s view of the sunset over the water. The inventive Polynesian cuisine, spearheaded by executive chef Tony Ton Thong, is a delight, as is the well-stocked sushi bar.